Selective weed control using D-Napropamide

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides a novel use of D-Napropamide and a method comprising the use of D-Napropamide and combinations comprising the same.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/839,979, filed Mar. 15, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,307,765, which isincorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to the use of Napropamide-M for selectivecontrol of dicotyledonous weeds.

BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART

Many herbicides are reported in the prior art. However, the herbicidaleffectiveness of a given compound cannot be predicted from anexamination of the substituent groups of the compound and often quiteclosely related compounds, which will have quite different weed controlabilities. Various herbicides or the isomers of the same herbicide mayhave overlapping or complementary areas of activity or selectivity, andcan thus be useful to control a variety of weeds upon application of acomposition. Furthermore, the various known herbicides are notcompletely effective. An ideal herbicide should give selective weedcontrol, over the full growing season, with a single administration. Itshould be able to control all common weeds by controlling their growthand reproduction as the seed, the germinating seed, the seedling, andthe growing plant.

Although the enantiomers of chiral substances have the samephysicochemical properties, their biochemical activities can be quitedifferent because biochemical processes usually show high stereo- orenantioselectivity.

The “active” enantiomer of a chiral chemical may have the desired effecton a target species, whereas the other enantiomer may not. It isadvisable to use only the biologically active enantiomers, therebyreducing the total amount of chemical pollutants released into theenvironment.

Many agrochemicals have chiral structures. For example, about 30% ofcurrently registered pesticide active ingredients contain one or morechiral centers. Herbicides are used to control the growth of undesiredvegetation, and they account for most of the agrochemicals in use today.Some chiral herbicides are sold as purified, optically active isomers,but for economic reasons, many others are still used as racemates.Different enantiomers of chiral herbicides can have differentenantioselective activities on target weeds and different toxic effectson non-target organisms because of their enantioselective interactionswith enzymes and biological receptors in organisms but the herbicidalselectivity of a specific isomer is not predictable.

N,N-diethyl-2-(α-naphthoxy)propionamide is known as napropamide, and itsracemic mixture is generally marketed under trade name as DEVRINOL®(napropamide). It is used for pre-emergence control of annual grassesand broad-leaved weeds in many crops and plantations.

The second carbon atom at the propionamide group in napropamide has ahydrogen atom, a methyl group, a naphthoxy moiety and a carboxamidegroup thereby forming a chiral center. Hence the molecule can exist intwo chiral stereoisomers: D or (R) and L or (S)-isomers:

Napropamide is a selective systemic herbicide absorbed by roots andtranslocated acripetally. It inhibits root development and growth.

Unsolved problems in this area include widely differing sensitivities ofcrop plants against herbicidal chemicals as well as the fact thatrepression of one weed species may cause increased growth of anothercompeting weed species, and that some weeds tend to become resistantagainst previously effective herbicides.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,718,455 discloses new organic compounds of formula Iused as herbicides:

This structure includes the compound Napropamide (Compound No. 54 andCompound No. 55). The herbicidal activity of compounds 1 to 22 isreported on crabgrass, annual bluegrass, watergrass and foxtail. Thispatent discloses that Compound No. 54 and Compound No. 55 possess goodherbicidal activity and can be used as pre-emergent and post-emergentherbicides (Table III). This patent disclosure did not investigate anddoes not indicate any differential selectivity of D-Napropamide towardsdifferent weed classes or types.

WO2009004642 discloses a process for manufacture of high purityD-(−)-N,N-diethyl-2-(α-naphthoxy)propionamide from L-2-HalopropionicAcid or (s)-(−)-2-Halopropionic Acid and composition comprising highpurity D-(−)-N,N-diethyl-2-(α-naphthoxy)propionamide. Again, this patentdisclosure did not investigate and does not indicate any differentialselectivity of D-Napropamide towards different weed classes or types.

There is a need in the art for enhanced uses of D-Napropamide and forimproved methods of herbicidal control by using D-Napropamide.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, the present invention provides the use of D-Napropamidefor selective control of dicotyledonous weeds at a locus.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method ofselectively controlling dicotyledonous weeds infestation at a locus bytreating said locus with a herbicidally effective amount of DNapropamide.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a herbicidalcomposition for selectively controlling the dicotyledonous weedsinfestation at a locus, said composition comprising D-Napropamide.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In this specification, the terms Napropamide-M and D-Napropamide areused interchangeably.

Racemic Napropamide has a satisfactorily good herbicidal activity.D-Napropamide possesses improved activity than L-Napropamide. Acomparatively similar distribution of herbicidal activity enhancement byuse of D-Napropamide (over racemic Napropamide) for monocotyledonousweeds as well as dicotyledonous weeds was expected. It was surprisinglyfound that D-Napropamide demonstrates a selectively enhanced control inthe growth of dicotyledonous weeds in agronomic crops vis-à-vis thecontrol in monocotyledonous weeds.

Therefore, in an embodiment, the present invention provides use ofD-Napropa-mide for the control of a dicotyledonous weed at a locus.Typically, the D-Napropamide is used for selective control of saiddicotyledonous weed.

The term locus as used herein shall denote the vicinity of a desiredcrop in which weed control, typically selective weed control, ofdicotyledonous weeds is desired. The locus includes the vicinity ofdesired crop plants wherein the weed infestation has either emerged oris yet to emerge. The term crop shall include a multitude of desiredcrop plants or an individual crop plant growing at a locus.

The term control indicates eradication of the investigated weed(s). A100% control signifies total eradication of the weed(s) underinvestigation.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method ofcontrolling dicotyledonous weeds infestation at a locus by treating saidlocus with a herbicidally effective amount of D-Napropamide.

Preferably, treating the locus with D-Napropamide comprisesadministering to the soil in which the desired crop is to be planted, aneffective amount of D-Napropamide. The administration is preferably byapplication either before seeding, during seeding, or, as in mostapplications, after seeding and before the crop emerges, so as toprevent the emergence of any weeds.

In an embodiment, D-Napropamide is administered prior to the emergenceof any weed.

Among the crops which show pre-emergence tolerance to D-Napropamide andin which this compound can be used as a herbicide are winter oilseedrape, strawberries, blackcurrants, gooseberries, raspberries, fieldtrees, shrubs, broccoli, cabbage, calabrese, cauliflower, kale andBrussel's sprouts. The method of the present invention is particularlyuseful in controlling the growth of dicotyledonous weeds in these crops.

In an embodiment, the dicotyledonous weeds which were found surprisinglysusceptible to D-Napropamide are selected from the group comprisingchickweed, speedwell, poppy, field bindweed, hairy fleabane, nettleleafgoosefoot, common groundsel, horseweed, common lambsqaurters, littlemallow, burning nettle, sowthistles, carpetweed, fat hen, blackberrynightshade, small flowered mallow, nettles, deadnettle, knotweed, commonsowthistle, and amaranthus.

However, it should be understood that the use of D-Napropamide and amethod of the present invention is not limited to the control of theseweeds alone but is applicable to any dicotyledonous weed.

The herbicide of the invention can be applied to the soil or to crops inany amount which will give the required control of weeds. A preferredrate of application is from about 0.5 to about 20 L/Ha of D Napropamide,and most preferably from about 1 to about 8 L/Ha.

In an embodiment, Napropamide-M may be preferably used for control ofdicotyledonous weeds in oil-seed rape at a dose of 500-1500 g/Ha,preferably 750-850 g/Ha.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be preferably used in fieldcrops in the range of 450-600 g/Ha.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be used in perennial crops at adosage of 2000-3000 g/Ha.

In an embodiment, the dicotyledonous weeds especially susceptible toD-Napropamide may be selected from the group consisting of Acalyphagracilens, Acalypha ostryifolia, Acalypha rhomboidea, Acalyphavirginica, Acer rubrum, Acer saccharinum, Actaea pachypoda, Actaearacemosa, Aeschynomene virginica, Agalinis purpurea, Agalinis setacea,Agalinis tenuifolia, Agastache nepetoides, Agastache scrophulariifolia,Ageratina altissima, Ageratina aromatica, Agrimonia parviflora,Agrimonia pubescens, Agrimonia rostellata, Alnus serrulata, Amaranthuscannabinus, Amaranthus hybridus, Amaranthus spinosus, Ambrosiaartemisiifolia, Ambrosia trifida, Amelanchier arborea, AmelanchierCanadensis, Amelanchier laevis, Amelanchier obovalis, Amelanchierstolonifera, Amorpha fruticosa, Amphicarpaea bracteata, Anaphalismargaritacea, Anemone quinquefolia, Anemone virginiana, Angelicavenenosa, Antennaria plantaginifolia, Apocynum androsaemifolium,Apocynum cannabinum, Aquilegia Canadensis, Arabis lyrata, Aralianudicaulis, Aralia racemosa, Aralia spinosa, Argemone Mexicana,Aristolochia serpentaria, Arnoglossum atriplicifolium, Arnoglossumreniforme, Artemisia campestris, Artemisia ludoviciana, Asarumcanadense, Asclepias amplexicaulis, Asclepias incarnate, Asclepiaspurpurascens, Asclepias quadrifolia, Asclepias rubra, Asclepias syriaca,Asclepias tuberose, Asclepias variegate, Asclepias verticillata,Aureolaria pedicularia, Aureolaria virginica, Baccharis halimifolia,Baptisia tinctoria, Bartonia paniculata, Bartonia virginica, Betulanigra, Betula populifolia, Bidens aristosa, Bidens bidentoides, Bidensbipinnata, Bidens cernua, Bidens coronate, Bidens discoidea, Bidensfrondosa, Bidens laevis, Bidens tripartite, Boehmeria cylindrical,Brasenia schreberi, Brickellia eupatorioides, Cakile edentula,Callitriche heterophylla, Callitriche terrestris, Caltha palustris,Calystegia spithamaea, Campanula aparinoides, Campsis radicans,Cardamine bulbosa, Cardamine concatenate, Cardamine parviflora,Cardamine pensylvanica, Carya alba, Carya glabra, Carya ovate, Caryapallid, Castanea dentate, Castanea pumila, Castilleja coccinea, Catalpabignonioides, Ceanothus americanus, Celastrus scandens, Celtisoccidentalis, Celtis tenuifolia, Cephalanthus occidentalis, Cerastiumnutans, Ceratophyllum demersum, Cercis Canadensis, Chaerophyllumprocumbens, Chamaecrista fasciculate, Chamaecrista nictitans,Chamaedaphne calyculata, Chamaesyce maculate, Chamaesyce nutans,Chamaesyce polygonifolia, Chamerion angustifolium, Chelone glabra,Chenopodium pratericola, Chenopodium rubrum, Chenopodium simplex,Chimaphila maculate, Chimaphila umbellate, Chionanthus virginicus,Chrysopsis mariana, Chrysosplenium americanum, Cicuta bulbifera, Cicutamaculate, Hybanthus concolor, Hydrastis Canadensis, HydrocotyleAmericana, Hydrocotyle umbellate, Hydrocotyle verticillata, Hypericumboreale, Hypericum canadense, Hypericum crux-andreae, Hypericumdensiflorum, Hypericum denticulatum, Hypericum ellipticum, Hypericumgentianoides, Hypericum hypericoides, Hypericum majus, Hypericummutilum, Hypericum punctatum, Ilex glabra, Ilex laevigata, Ilexmucronata, Ilex opaca, Ilex verticillata, Impatiens capensis, Ionactislinariifolius, Ipomoea pandurata, Itea virginica, Juglans cinerea,Juglans nigra, Kalmia angustifolia, Kalmia latifolia, Kosteletzkyavirginica, Krigia biflora, Krigia virginica, Lactuca biennis, LactucaCanadensis, Lactuca hirsute, Laportea Canadensis, Lathyrus palustris,Lathyrus venosus, Lechea minor, Lechea mucronata, Lechea racemulosa,Leiophyllum buxifolium, Lepidium densiflorum, Lepidium virginicum,Lespedeza angustifolia, Lespedeza capitata, Lespedeza frutescens,Lespedeza hirta, Lespedeza repens, Lespedeza stuevei, Lespedezaviolacea, Lespedeza virginica, Liatris pilosa, Liatris spicata,Limosella australis, Lindera benzoin, Lindernia dubia, Linumintercursum, Linum striatum, Linum virginianum, Liquidambar styraciflua,Liriodendron tulipifera, Lobelia canbyi, Lobelia cardinalis, Lobeliainflate, Lobelia nuttallii, Lobelia spicata, Ludwigia alternifolia,Ludwigia hirtella, Ludwigia palustris, Ludwigia sphaerocarpa, Lupinusperennis, Lycopus americanus, Lycopus amplectens, Lycopus rubellus,Lycopus uniflorus, Lycopus virginicus, Lyonia ligustrina, Lyoniamariana, Lysimachia ciliate, Lysimachia hybrid, Lysimachia quadrifolia,Lysimachia terrestris, Lysimachia thyrsiflora, Magnolia tripetala,Magnolia virginiana, Melampyrum lineare, Menispermum canadense,Mentha-piperita, Mentha arvensis, Menyanthes trifoliate, Micranthemummicranthemoides, Mikania scandens, Mimulus alatus, Mimulus ringens,Minuartia caroliniana, Mirabilis nyctaginea, Mitchella repens,Moehringia lateriflora, Mollugo verticillata, Monarda punctata,Monotropa hypopithys, Monotropa uniflora, Morella caroliniensis, Morellacerifera, Morella pensylvanica, Morus rubra, Myosotis laxa, Myosotisverna, Myrica gale, Myriophyllum humile, Myriophyllum pinnatum,Myriophyllum tenellum, Nelumbo lutea, Nuphar lutea, NuttallanthusCanadensis, Nymphaea odorata, Nyssa sylvatica, Obolaria virginica,Oclemena nemoralis, Oenothera biennis, Oenothera fruticosa, Oenotheralaciniata, Oenothera perennis, Oldenlandia unWora, Oligoneuron rigidum,Onosmodium virginianum, Opuntia humifusa, Orthilia secunda, Osmorhizaclaytonia, Osmorhiza longistylis, Oxalis dillenii, Oxalis stricta,Oxypolis rigidior, Packera aurea, Packera obovata, Packera paupercula,Panax trifolius, Paronychia Canadensis, Paronychia fastigiata,Parthenocissus quinquefolia, Pedicularis Canadensis, Pedicularislanceolata, Penstemon hirsutus, Penstemon laevigatus, Penthorumsedoides, Phlox divaricata, Phlox maculate, Phlox pilosa, Phloxsubulata, Phoradendron leucarpum, Photinia floribunda, Photiniamelanocarpa, Photinia pyrifolia, Phryma leptostachya, Physalisheterophylla, Physalis longifolia, Physalis pubescens, Physocarpusopulifolius, Phytolacca Americana, Pilea Fontana, Pilea pumila, Plantagoaristata, Plantago pusilla, Plantago virginica, Platanus occidentalis,Pluchea foetida, Podophyllum peltatum, Polemonium reptans, Polygalabrevifolia, Polygala cruciata, Polygala incarnate, Polygala lutea,Polygala mariana, Polygala nuttallii, Polygala polygama, Polygalasanguine, Polygala senega, Polygala verticillata, Polygonellaarticulate, Polygonum amphibium, Polygonum arifolium, Polygonum careyi,Polygonum erectum, Polygonum hydropiperoides, Polygonum lapathifolium,Polygonum pensylvanicum, Polygonum punctatum, Polygonum robustius,Polygonum sagittatum, Polygonum tenue, Populus grandidentata, Populustremuloides, Potentilla arguta, Potentilla Canadensis, Potentillanorvegica, Potentilla simplex, Prenanthes altissima, Prenanthesautumnalis, Prenanthes serpentaria, Prenanthes trifoliolata,Proserpinaca intermedia, Proserpinaca palustris, Proserpinaca pectinata,Prunella vulgaris, Prunus Americana, Prunus angustifolia, Prunusmaritime, Prunus pumila, Prunus serotina, Pseudognaphalium helleri,Pseudognaphalium obtusifolium, Ptilimnium capillaceum, Pycnanthemumclinopodioides, Pycnanthemum incanum, Pycnanthemum muticum, Pycnanthemumtenuifolium, Pycnanthemum verticillatum, Pycnanthemum virginianum,Pyrola Americana, Pyrola chlorantha, Pyrola elliptica, Pyxidantherabarbulata, Quercus alba, Quercus coccinea, Polygonum pensylvanicum,Polygonum punctatum, Polygonum robustius, Polygonum sagittatum,Polygonum tenue, Populus grandidentata, Populus tremuloides, Potentillaarguta, Potentilla Canadensis, Potentilla norvegica, Potentilla simplex,Prenanthes altissima, Prenanthes autumnalis, Prenanthes serpentaria,Prenanthes trifoliolata, Proserpinaca intermedia, Proserpinacapalustris, Proserpinaca pectinata, Prunella vulgaris, Prunus Americana,Prunus angustifolia, Prunus maritime, Prunus pumila, Prunus serotina,Pseudognaphalium helleri, Pseudognaphalium obtusifolium, Ptilimniumcapillaceum, Pycnanthemum clinopodioides, Pycnanthemum incanum,Pycnanthemum muticum, Pycnanthemum tenuifolium, Pycnanthemumverticillatum, Pycnanthemum virginianum, Pyrola Americana, Pyrolachlorantha, Pyrola elliptica, Pyxidanthera barbulata, Quercus alba,Quercus coccinea, Quercus ilicifolia, Quercus marilandica, Quercusmichauxii, Quercus palustris, Quercus phellos, Quercus prinoides,Quercus prinus, Quercus rubra, Quercus stellata, Ranunculus ambigens,Ranunculus hispidus, Ranunculus longirostris, Ranunculus pensylvanicus,Ranunculus pusillus, Ranunculus recurvatus, Ranunculus sceleratus,Ranunculus trichophyllus, Rhexia mariana, Rhexia virginica, Rhododendronmaximum, Rhododendron periclymenoides, Rhododendron prinophyllum,Rhododendron viscosum, Rhus copallinum, Rhus glabra, Rhus typhina, Ribesamericanum, Robinia pseudoacacia, Robinia viscose, Rorippa palustris,Rosa Carolina, Rotala ramosior, Rubus Canadensis, Rubus cuneifolius,Rubus flagellaris, Rubus hispidus, Rubus occidentalis, Rudbeckia hirta,Rudbeckia laciniata, Rumex altissimus, Rumex orbiculatus, Sabatiaangularis, Sabatia difformis, Sagina decumbens, Salix bebbiana, Salixdiscolor, Salix eriocephala, Salix humilis, Salix interior, Salix nigra,Salix petiolaris, Salix sericea, Salvia lyrata, Sanguinaria Canadensis,Sanguisorba Canadensis, Sanicula Canadensis, Sanicula marilandica,Sarracenia purpurea, Saururus cernuus, Saxifraga pensylvanica, Saxifragavirginiensis, Schwalbea Americana, Scrophularia lanceolata, Scrophulariamarilandica, Scutellaria elliptica, Scutellaria galericulata,Scutellaria integrifolia, Scutellaria lateriflora, Senna hebecarpa,Sericocarpus asteroids, Sericocarpus linifolius, Sicyos angulatus, Sidaspinosa, Silene antirrhina, Silene stellata, Sium suave, Solanumcarolinense, Solanum ptycanthum, Solanum rostratum, Solidago bicolor,Solidago caesia, Solidago erecta, Solidago fistulosa, Solidagoflexicaulis, Solidago gigantean, Solidago juncea, Solidagolatissimifolia, Solidago nemoralis, Solidago odora, Solidago patula,Solidago puberula, Solidago rugosa, Solidago sempervirens, Solidagostricta, Solidago uliginosa, Solidago ulmifolia, Spergularia salina,Spiraea alba, Stachys hyssopifolia, Stachys palustris, Stachystenuifolia, Staphylea trifolia, longifolia, Stellaria pubera,Strophostyles helvola, Strophostyles umbellate, Stylosanthes biflora,Symphyotrichum cordifolium, Symphyotrichum dumosum, Symphyotrichumericoides, Symphyotrichum leave, Symphyotrichum lanceolatum,Symphyotrichum lateriflorum, Symphyotrichum novi-belgii, Symphyotrichumpatens, Symphyotrichum pilosum, Symphyotrichum puniceum, Symphyotrichumsubulatum, Symphyotrichum undulatum, Teucrium canadense, Thalictrumpubescens, Thalictrum revolutum, Thalictrum thalictroides, Thaspiumbarbinode, Thaspium trifoliatum, Tilia Americana, Toxicodendronpubescens, Toxicodendron radicans, Toxicodendron vernix, Triadenumvirginicum, Trichosterna brachiatum, Trichosterna dichotomum,Trichosterna setaceum, Trientalis borealis, Triodanis perfoliata, UlmusAmericana, Ulmus rubra, Utricularia geminiscapa, Utricularia gibba,Utricularia intermedia, Utricularia juncea, Utricularia macrorhiza,Utricularia purpurea, Utricularia radiate, Utricularia striata,Utricularia subulata, Vaccinium angustifolium, Vaccinium corymbosum,Vaccinium fuscatum, Vaccinium macrocarpon, Vaccinium stamineum,Valerianella umbilicata, Verbena hastate, Verbena simplex, Verbenaurticifolia, Verbesina alternifolia, Veronica anagallis-aquatica,Veronica peregrine, Veronica scutellata, Veronicastrum virginicum,Viburnum acerifolium, Viburnum dentatum, Viburnum nudum, Viburnumprunifolium, Viola-palmate, Viola affinis, Viola bicolor, Viola blanda,Viola brittoniana, Viola cucullata, Viola hirsutula, Viola labradorica,Viola lanceolata, Viola macloskeyi, Viola pedata, Viola pubescens, Violasagittata, Viola triloba, Vitis aestivalis, Vitis labrusca, Vitisriparia, Vitis vulpine, Xanthium strumarium, and Zizia aptera.

In another embodiment, the use and method of the present invention iseffective against dicotyledonous weeds selected from Cirsium arvense,Taraxacum officinale, Ranunculus repens, Senecio vulgaris, Papaverrohoeas, Veronica persica, Matricaria sp., Fallopia convolvulus,Veronica arvensis, Veronica hederofolia, Stellaria media, and Polygonumconvolvulus.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a herbicidalcomposition comprising D Napropamide and agronomically acceptableexcipients. These compositions were found useful in the practice of theenhanced use and improved method of the present invention. Theagronomically acceptable excipients may be selected from carriers, inertmaterials, organic or inorganic solvents, minerals, mixed solvents,wetting agents and/or emulsifying agents, adhesive agents, anti-cakingagents, deflocculating agents, and the like. The herbicidal compositionmay be formulated in the form of solid and liquid formulations.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a combinationcomprising Napropamide-M along with a second herbicide selective formonocotyledonous weeds. It was surprisingly found that a broad-spectrumherbicide effect was achieved with a reduced overall amount of activeingredient when Napropamide-M was combined with a second herbicide.

The present invention therefore also provides a herbicide combinationwhich comprises: (a) D-Napropamide; and (b) a second herbicide which isactive against monocotyledonous weeds.

In an embodiment, the second herbicide selected is such that not only itis active against monocotyledonous weeds but is, preferably, relativelymore active against monocotyledonous weeds than dicotyledonous weeds.

Further, following the finding of the present invention thatD-Napropamide has enhanced activity specifically against dicotyledonousweeds, it is possible to formulate the herbicide such that it is activein controlling dicotyledonous weeds, yet is less active (preferablysubstantially inactive) against monocotyledonous plant species.Accordingly, the present invention also provides the use ofD-Napropamide for the control of a dicotyledonous weed at a locus,wherein the D-Napropamide is applied in an amount such that it iseffective in controlling said dicotyledonous weed, yet is less active(preferably substantially inactive) against monocotyledonous plantspecies.

Typically, said monocotyledonous plant species may be a crop plant.

In this embodiment, the activity of the D-Napropamide against themonocotyledonous plant species is typically such that the mean finalfoliar fresh weight of the monocotyledonous plant species 21 days afterapplication of the D-Napropamide is 70% or more, more typically 80% ormore, preferably 90% or more, than the weight obtained with untreatedplants.

In an embodiment, the second herbicide is selected from but not limitedto, clomazone, a urea herbicide, a triazine herbicide, ahydroxybenzonitrile herbicide, a thiocarbamate herbicide, a pyridazineherbicide, chloroacetanilide herbicides; benzothiazole herbicides;carbanilate herbicides, cyclohexene oxime herbicides; picolinic acidherbicides; pyridine herbicides; quinolinecarboxylic acid herbicides;chlorotriazine herbicides, aryloxyphenoxypropionic herbicides,oxadiazolone herbicides; phenylurea herbicides, sulfonanilideherbicides; triazolopyrimidine herbicides, amide herbicides, pyridazineherbicides, dinitroaniline herbicides, or combinations thereof.

In another preferred embodiment the present invention provides aherbicidal combination which comprises: (a) D-Napropamide; and (b)clomazone.

In another preferred embodiment the present invention provides aherbicidal combination which comprises: (a) D-Napropamide; and (b)Benfluralin.

In yet another embodiment the present invention provides use ofcombination comprising combination of D-Napropamide and a secondherbicide for the control of weeds at a locus.

In another preferred embodiment the present invention provides a methodof controlling the weed infestation at a locus by treating with acombination comprising combination of D-Napropamide and a secondherbicide.

In another preferred embodiment the present invention provides aherbicidal combination which comprises: (a) D-Napropamide; and (b)Clomazone.

In a preferred embodiment, clomazone is combined with Napropamide-M asan encapsulated capsule suspension. In one embodiment, the capsulesuspension formulation of clomazone is as described in U.S. Reissue Pat.No. RE38675, U.S. Pat. No. 5,583,090, U.S. Pat. No. 5,783,520, or PCTPublication No. WO/2011/121407, all of which are incorporated herein byreference.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a herbicidalcombination comprising (a) Napropamide-M; (b) an urea herbicide selectedfrom benzthiazuron, cumyluron, cycluron, dichloralurea, diflufenzopyr,isonoruron, isouron, methabenzthiazuron, monisouron, noruron, anisuron,buturon, chlorbromuron, chloreturon, chlorotoluron, chloroxuron,daimuron, difenoxuron, dimefuron, diuron, fenuron, fluometuron,fluothiuron, isoproturon, linuron, methiuron, methyldymron,metobenzuron, metobromuron, metoxuron, monolinuron, monuron, neburon,parafluron, phenobenzuron, siduron, tetrafluron, thidiazuron,amidosulfuron, azimsulfuron, bensulfuron, chlorimuron, cyclosulfamuron,ethoxysulfuron, flazasulfuron, flucetosulfuron, flupyrsulfuron,foramsulfuron, halosulfuron, imazosulfuron, mesosulfuron,metazosulfuron, methiopyrisulfuron, monosulfuron, nicosulfuron,orthosulfamuron, oxasulfuron, primisulfuron, propyrisulfuron,pyrazosulfuron, rimsulfuron, sulfometuron, sulfosulfuron,trifloxysulfuron, zuomihuanglong, chlorsulfuron, cinosulfuron,ethametsulfuron, iodosulfuron, iofensulfuron, metsulfuron, prosulfiron,thifensulfuron, triasulfuron, tribenuron, triflusulfuron, tritosulfuron,buthiuron, ethidimuron, tebuthiuron, thiazafluron, and thidiazuron; and(c) an agriculturally acceptable carrier or diluent.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a combinationcomprising (a) Napropamide-M; and (b) dimefuron.

In an embodiment, Napropamide-M is combined with a triazine herbicideselected from the group consisting of dipropetryn, fucaojing,trihydroxytriazine, atrazine, chlorazine, cyanazine, cyprazine,eglinazine, ipazine, mesoprazine, procyazine, proglinazine, propazine,sebuthylazine, simazine, terbuthylazine, trietazine, indaziflam,triaziflam, atraton, methometon, prometon, secbumeton, simeton,terbumeton, ametryn, aziprotryne, cyanatryn, desmetryn, dimethametryn,methoprotryne, prometryn, simetryn, and terbutryn.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with a nitrileherbicide selected from bromobonil, bromoxynil, chloroxynil,dichlobenil, iodobonil, ioxynil, and pyraclonil.

In an embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with a thiocarbamateherbicide selected from dazomet and metam.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with a pyridazineherbicide selected from credazine, cyclopyrimorate, pyridafol, andpyridate.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with achloroacetanilide herbicide selected from acetochlor, alachlor,butachlor, butenachlor, delachlor, diethatyl, dimethachlor, ethachlor,ethaprochlor, metazachlor, metolachlor, S-metolachlor, pretilachlor,propachlor, propisochlor, prynachlor, terbuchlor, thenylchlor, andxylachlor.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with abenzothiazole herbicide selected from benazolin, benzthiazuron,fenthiaprop, mefenacet, and methabenzthiazuron.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with a carbanilateherbicide selected from a carbanilate herbicide selected from barban,BCPC, carbasulam, carbetamide, CEPC, chlorbufam, chlorpropham, CPPC,desmedipham, phenisopham, phenmedipham, phenmedipham-ethyl, propham, andswep.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with a cyclohexeneoxime herbicide selected from alloxydim, butroxydim, clethodim,cloproxydim, cycloxydim, profoxydim, sethoxydim, tepraloxydim, andtralkoxydim.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with a picolinicacid herbicide selected from aminopyralid, clopyralid, halauxifen, andpicloram.

In an embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with a pyridineherbicide selected from aminopyralid, cliodinate, clopyralid,diflufenican, dithiopyr, flufenican, fluroxypyr, halauxifen, haloxydine,picloram, picolinafen, pyriclor, pyroxsulam, thiazopyr, and triclopyr.

In an embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with a quinolinecarboxylic acid herbicide selected from quinclorac and quinmerac.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with anaryloxyphenoxypropionic acid herbicide selected from cloprop, 4-CPP,dichlorprop, dichlorprop-P, 3,4-DP, fenoprop, mecoprop, mecoprop-P,chlorazifop, clodinafop, clofop, cyhalofop, diclofop, fenoxaprop,fenoxaprop-P, fenthiaprop, fluazifop, fluazifop-P, haloxyfop,haloxyfop-P, isoxapyrifop, kuicaoxi, metamifop, propaquizafop,quizalofop, quizalofop-P, and trifop.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with a oxadiazoloneherbicide selected from dimefuron, methazole, oxadiargyl, and oxadiazon.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with a sulfoanilideherbicide selected from benzofluor, cloransulam, diclosulam, florasulam,flumetsulam, metosulam, perfluidone, profluazol, and pyrimisulfan.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with atriazolopyrimidine herbicide selected from cloransulam, diclosulam,florasulam, flumetsulam, metosulam, penoxsulam, and pyroxsulam.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with amideherbicides selected from allidochlor, amicarbazone, beflubutamid,benzadox, benzipram, bromobutide, cafenstrole, CDEA, cyprazole,dimethenamid, dimethenamid-P, diphenamid, epronaz, etnipromid,fentrazamide, flucarbazone, flupoxam, fomesafen, halosafen,huangcaoling, isocarbamid, isoxaben, naptalam, pethoxamid, propyzamide,quinonamid, saflufenacil, tebutam, and tiafenacil.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with a pyridazineherbicide selected from credazine, cyclopyrimorate, pyridafol, andpyridate.

In an embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with glufosinate. Anadditional advantage demonstrated by this combination was thatNapropamide-M acted pre-emergence while any weeds emerged was quicklykilled by the glufosinate component thereby rendering the pre-emergentherbicide Napropamide-M active yet again. Therefore, the combination ofNapropamide-M with glufosinate was found to be surprisingly efficaciousas a pre-emergent and broad spectrum post-emergent herbicide.

In yet another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with adinitroaniline herbicide selected from benfluralin, butralin,chlornidine, dinitramine, dipropalin, ethalfluralin, fluchloralin,isopropalin, methalpropalin, nitralin, oryzalin, pendimethalin,prodiamine, profluralin, and trifluralin.

In another embodiment, Napropamide-M may be combined with a thirdherbicide. The third herbicide may be selected from the herbicideslisted above in any of the embodiments although the second and thirdherbicides may not be the same.

In yet another preferred embodiment the present invention furthercomprises third herbicide selected from clomazone, chloroacetanilideherbicides; pyrazole herbicides; quinolinecarboxylic acid herbicides;and amide herbicides.

In this embodiment, the chloroacetanilide herbicide, pyrazoleherbicides, quinoline carboxylic acid herbicide and amide herbicide maybe selected from the list of compounds defined in the embodimentsdescribed above for these classes of compounds.

In another embodiment the present invention also provides a herbicidecombination which comprises: (a) D-Napropamide; (b) a second herbicide;and (c) a third herbicide.

In yet another embodiment the present invention provides a ternaryherbicidal combination which comprises D-Napropamide; benfluralin; andclomazone.

In yet another embodiment the present invention provides a ternaryherbicidal combination which comprises D-Napropamide; dimethachlor; andclomazone.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a combinationcomprising:

-   (a) Napropamide-M; and (b) a second herbicide component selected    from any one of:    -   (i) S-Metolachlor;    -   (ii) Clomazone;    -   (iii) Flufenacet;    -   (iv) Diflufenican;    -   (v) Flufenacet+diflufenacet;    -   (vi) Benfluraline;    -   (vii) Quinmerac;    -   (viii) Metazachlor;    -   (ix) Quinmerac+Metazachlor;    -   (x) Glufosinate;    -   (xi) Metribuzin;    -   (xii) Clomazone+S-Metolachlor;    -   (xiii) Dimethachlor;    -   (xiv) Benazolin;    -   (xv) Carbetamide;    -   (xvi) Clethodim;    -   (xvii) Cycloxydim;    -   (xviii) Sethoxydim;    -   (xix) Clopyralid;    -   (xx) Cyanazine;    -   (xxi) Simazine;    -   (xxii) Diclofop;    -   (xxiii) Fenoxaprop-P;    -   (xxiv) Fluazifop-P;    -   (xxv) Haloxyfop-P;    -   (xxvi) Propaquizafop;    -   (xxvii) Quizalafop;    -   (xxviii) Dimefuron;    -   (xxix) Flumetsulam;    -   (xxx) Propyzamide;    -   (xxxi) Pyridate;    -   (xxxii) Trifluralin; and    -   (xxxiii) Clomazone+Metazachlor.

The compound Napropamide-M is known in the art and can be prepared byany of the known methods such as the one disclosed in WO2009004642,which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The invention will now be explained in more detail in the followingexamples that illustrate, but are not intended to limit, the invention.

EXAMPLES

Field trials were conducted on various moncotyledonous weeds anddicotyledonous weeds and the effect of D-isomer of Napropamide wasstudied to understand the selective and effective control ofdicotyledonous weeds over monocotyledonous weeds. The effect of D-isomerof Napropamide in comparison to racemic napropamide and untreated wasstudied, which is concluded herein below:

Statistical Analysis Model:

Several small plot replicated trials were carried out to evaluate and/orcompare the efficacy of D-Napropamide against a range of indicatedannual broadleaved and grass weed species in the indicated crops. Noproblems were encountered during mixing or application of any of theproduct formulations or tank mixtures under test.

In each of the reported data, the homogeneity of variance was tested byBartlett's test. Wherever this test indicated no homogeneity ofvariance, the transformed values were used for analysis of variance.Assessment data was then analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance(ANOVA) on untransformed and transformed data. The probability of nosignificant differences occurring between treatment means was calculatedas the F probability value (p(F)). A mean comparison test was onlyperformed and reported when the treatment of F that was calculatedduring analysis of variance was significant at the observed significancelevel specified for the mean comparison test. Where the data wastransformed, treatment means in the reports were presented in theirdetransformed state, with the appropriate letter test and meandescriptions (LSD and standard deviation) derived from the transformedANOVA.

Example 1 Controlled Trial: Comparative Effect of D-Isomer ofNapropamide and Napropamide for Controlling Stellaria media (Dicot Weed)and Poa annua (Monocot Weed)

A study was carried out to determine the relative biological activity ofthe D and L isomers of Napropamide when applied pre-emergence to onemonocotyledon and one dicotyledon species. Napropamide, containing 450grammes active substance per litre (g a.s./L) formulated as a suspensionconcentrate and the D-isomer of Napropamide (1000 g a.s./L) were appliedat a range of concentrations from 0.1575 to 1.26 kilograms of activesubstance per hectare (kg a.s/Ha).

EC₅₀ values in kg a.s./Ha were calculated from the dose response datausing final foliar fresh weight data for each species and was used todetermine the relative biological activity of the D and L isomers ofNapropamide. The methodology was based on the OECD guideline 2008,according to the revision of July 2006 for seedling emergence andgrowth. The study was conducted to GLP standards.

Seeds were sown directly into non-porous plastic pots containing thefollowing mix of soil: 10 L of sterile loam+4 L of coarse grit (washedquartztite, nominal 4 mm)+10 L of sand. This soil mix was characterizedas a sandy loam with an organic carbon content of 1.5% and pH of 7.2.Details of the plant species, number of seeds per pot and pot size areshown below. All seeds were sown 1-2 cm deep.

TABLE 1 Details of Plant Species Weed type Species Common nameVariety(Source) Seeds/pot Pot size Monocotyledon Poa annua Meadow grassHerbiseed 4 7 × 7 × 8 cm Dicotyledon Stellaria media Chickweed Herbiseed6 7 × 7 × 8 cm

The highest concentration of Napropamide was prepared by measuring acalculated volume by weight and diluting with tap water to the fullrequired volume. Lower concentrations were prepared by serial dilutionwith water. D-Napropamide was prepared by dissolving the calculatedweight in acetone and adding water to give the full required volume in50:50 acetone+water. Lower concentrations were prepared by serialdilution with 50:50 acetone+water. D-Napropamide dissolved completely.

TABLE 2 Preparation of the Highest Rate Spray Solutions for Poa annuaActive Application Amount Volume Test item Ingredient Rate volumeweighed prepared Napropamide 450 g as/L 1.26 kg as/L 193.12 L/Ha 6.321 g400 mL (water) D-Napropamide 1000 g as kg 1.26 kg as/L 193.12 L/Ha 2.611g 400 mL (acetone + water)

TABLE 3 Preparation of Highest Rate Spray Solutions for Stellaria mediaActive Application Amount Volume Test item Ingredient Rate volumeweighed prepared Napropamide 450 g as/L 1.26 kg as/L 196.17 L/Ha 6.223 g400 mL (water) D-Napropamide 1000 g as kg 1.26 kg as/L 196.17 L/Ha 2.569g 400 mL (acetone + water)

The sprayer was calibrated within 24 hours prior to application byweight of 15 applications of water to six 86 mm ID petri dishes. Thetotal weight of water over a known area enabled a simple calculationgiving the volume rate to be made. The volume rate achieved was withinthe range specified in the study plan (200 L/Ha±10%).

Replication was five pots per treatment for each plant species. Afterapplication, pots were placed on the bench in glasshouse in randomizedblocks. Plants were assessed for emergence, mortality and visual injury(expressed as a percentage of the untreated control: 0%=no injury,1-39%=slight injury, 40-69%=moderate injury, 70-99%=severe injury and100%-=all plants dead) at 14 and 21 days after 50% emergence in theuntreated controls. Fresh weights (biomass above soil level) were alsorecorded 21 days after 50% emergence in the untreated controls. Plantswere fully turgid at the time of harvest.

TABLE 4 Mean Final Foliar Fresh Weights (g) Treatment Rate (kg/Ha) Poaannua Stellaria media Untreated Acetone + Water 0.90 1.44 D-Napropamide0.1575 0.93 0.498 D-Napropamide 0.315 0.64 0.198 D-Napropamide 0.63 0.450.17 Napropamide 0.315 0.57 0.3 Napropamide 0.63 0.98 0.328

D-Napropamide demonstrates distribution of enhanced activity towardscontrol of dicot weed vis-à-vis only a moderate selectivity towardsmonocot weed in comparison with Napropamide.

TABLE 5 Mean Final Foliar Fresh Weights Expressed as Percentage ofUntreated Controls Treatment Rate (kg/Ha) Poa annua Stellaria mediaUntreated Acetone + Water 100 100 D-Napropamide 0.1575 100 35D-Napropamide 0.315 71 14 D-Napropamide 0.630 50 12 Napropamide 0.1575100 70 Napropamide 1.26 23 16

D-Napropamide demonstrates distribution of enhanced activity towardscontrol of dicot weed vis-à-vis only a moderate selectivity towardsmonocot weed in comparison with Napropamide.

Assessment data was recorded on pro-forma sheets and entered intoGylling ARM 7 software. EC₅₀ values were calculated using audited meansdata from the final assessments (21 day). Gylling ARM 7.0 software useda simple probit-maximum likelihood estimation method with 99% confidencelevel. The EC₅₀ values generated were then visually checked against themeans data table to verify they appeared correct.

TABLE 6 EC₅₀ Values in Kg as/Ha Based on the Final Fresh Weights Type ofweed Species Common name EC₅₀ (kg/Ha) Monocot Poa annua Meadow grassd-Napropamide 0.44 l-Napropamide 1.26 Napropamide 0.72 Dicot StellariaChickweed d-Napropamide 0.054 media L-Napropamide . . . 1.26 Napropamide0.22

Conclusion: D-Napropamide demonstrates distribution of enhanced activitytowards control of dicot weed vis-a-vis only a moderate selectivitytowards monocot weed in comparison with Napropamide. D-Napropamide wasfound about 1.63 times more active than racemic Napropamide and 2.86more active than L-Napropamide in monocotyledonous weeds. Surprisingly,D-Napropamide was found to be about 4.07 times more active than racemicNapropamide and 23.33 times more active than L-Napropamide indicotyledonous weeds. The degree of enhancement in efficacy seen overracemic Napropamide and L-Napropamide towards the control ofdicotyledonous weeds was surprising. Equally surprising was a cleartrend of differentiated selectivity of D-Napropamide towards the controlof dicotyledonous weeds vis-a-vis the control of monocotyledonous weeds.

Example 2 Selectivity of D-Napropamide for Controlling Ranunculusrepens, Senecio Vulgaris, and Papaver rhoeas (Dicotyledonous Weed) inStrawberry Farm

Trial was carried out on strawberries to evaluate the efficacy andselectivity of D-Napropamide and equivalent rate of DEVRINOL®(napropamide) applied pre-emergence. Efficacy was assessed visuallyafter the emergence of significantly new growth in untreated plot. Thepercentage control of D-isomer of Napropamide and DEVRINOL® was assessedin comparison to the untreated after 224 days after application.

TABLE 7 Mean Percentage Control of Ranunculus repens (dicotyledonousweed) Percentage Percentage Control at Control at S No. Treatment 224DAA Treatment 224 DAA 1 Untreated 0.00 2 Napropamide 33.3 D-Napropamide66.7 5 L/Ha 3.0 L/Ha 3 Napropamide 66.7 D-Napropamide 100 7 L/Ha 4.2L/Ha 4 Napropamide 83.3 D-Napropamide 100 14 L/Ha 8.5 L/Ha LSD (P =0.5): 4.640; SD: 3.179

The tested formulations contained 450 g/L of Napropamide andNapropamide-M, respectively.

Conclusion: D-Napropamide demonstrated surprising efficacy in thecontrol of Ranunculus repens vis-à-vis the control achieved byNapropamide at an equivalent dosage.

TABLE 8 Mean Percentage Control of Senecio vulgaris PercentagePercentage Control at Control at S No. Treatment 70 DAA Treatment 70 DAA1 Untreated 0.00 2 Napropamide 37.5 D-Napropamide 75.0 5 L/Ha 3.0 L/Ha 3Napropamide 25.0 D-Napropamide 50.0 7 L/Ha 4.2 L/Ha 4 Napropamide 12.5D-Napropamide 75.0 14 L/Ha 8.5 L/Ha

The tested formulations contained 450 g/L of Napropamide andNapropamide-M, respectively.

Conclusion: D-Napropamide demonstrated surprising efficacy in thecontrol of Senecio vulgaris, a dicotyledonous weed, vis-à-vis thecontrol achieved by Napropamide at an equivalent dosage.

TABLE 9 Mean Percentage Control of Papaver rhoeas Percentage PercentageControl at Control at S No. Treatment 70 DAA Treatment 70 DAA 1Untreated 0.00 2 Napropamide 62.5 D-Napropamide 71.7 5 L/Ha 3.0 L/Ha 3Napropamide 81.7 D-Napropamide 95.0 7 L/Ha 4.2 L/Ha 4 Napropamide 82.5D-Napropamide 95.7 14 L/Ha 8.5 L/Ha

The tested formulations contained 450 g/L of Napropamide andNapropamide-M, respectively.

Conclusion: D-Napropamide demonstrated surprising efficacy in thecontrol of Papaver rhoeas vis-à-vis the control achieved by Napropamideat an equivalent dosage.

Example 3 Selectivity of D-Isomer of Napropamide for Controlling AnnualBroadleaved and Grass Weed Species in Winter Oilseed Rape

Trials were conducted to evaluate the selectivity and efficacy ofD-isomer of Napropamide when applied pre-emergence to oilseed rape crop.The % control of weed was assessed at regular intervals.

TABLE 10 Mean Percentage Control of Apera spica-venti (Monocot Weed)Percentage Percentage Control at Control at S No. Treatment 63 DAATreatment 63 DAA 1 Untreated 0.00 2 D-Napropamide 35.00 Napropamide40.00 1.4 L/Ha 1.6 L/Ha 3 D-Napropamide 52.50 Napropamide 76.25 1.6 L/Ha2.8 L/Ha 4 D-Napropamide 58.75 Napropamide 67.50 1.6 L/Ha 2.8 L/Ha LSD(P = 0.5): 10.367

The tested formulations contained 450 g/L of Napropamide andNapropamide-M, respectively.

Conclusion: D-Napropamide demonstrates poor efficacy in the control ofApera spica-venti, a monocot weed, vis-à-vis the control achieved byNapropamide at an equivalent dosage.

TABLE 11 Mean Percentage Control of Veronica persica (Dicot Weed)Percentage Percentage Control at Control at S No. Treatment 63 DAATreatment 63 DAA 1 Untreated 0.00 2 D-Napropamide 100.00 Napropamide75.00 1.4 L/Ha 1.6 L/Ha 3 D-Napropamide 100.00 Napropamide 75.00 1.6L/Ha 2.8 L/Ha LSD (P = 0.5): 10.367

The tested formulations contained 450 g/L of Napropamide andNapropamide-M respectively.

Conclusion: D-Napropamide demonstrates superior efficacy in the controlof Veronica persica, a dicot weed, vis-à-vis the control achieved byNapropamide at an equivalent dosage.

TABLE 12 Mean Percentage Control of Triticum aestivum (Monocot Weed)Percentage Percentage Control at Control at S No. Treatment 51 DAATreatment 72 DAA 1 Untreated 0.00 2 D-Napropamide 0.00 D-Napropamide0.00 450 g/L @ 1.4 L/Ha 450 g/L @ 1.4 L/Ha 3 D-Napropamide 0.00D-Napropamide 0.00 450 g/L @ 1.6 L/Ha 450 g/L @ 1.6 L/Ha 4 D-Napropamide0.00 D-Napropamide 0.00 450 g/L @ 1.8 L/Ha 450 g/L @ 1.8 L/Ha 5D-Napropamide 0.00 D-Napropamide 0.00 450 g/L @ 2.0 L/Ha 450 g/L @ 2.0L/Ha LSD (P = 0.5): 0.000; SD: 0.000

Conclusion: D-Napropamide demonstrates negligible control of Triticumaestivum, a monocot weed.

TABLE 13 Mean Percentage Control of Cirsium arvense (Dicot Weed)Percentage Percentage Control at Control at S No. Treatment 51 DAATreatment 51 DAA 1 Untreated 0.00 2 D-Napropamide 100.00 Napropamide20.00 450 g/L @ 1.6 L/Ha 450 g/L @ 1.6 L/Ha

Conclusion: D-Napropamide demonstrates superior control of Cirsiumarvense, a dicot weed vis-à-vis a negligible control of the same weedwith an equivalent dosage of Napropamide.

TABLE 14 Mean Percentage Control of Senecio vulgaris PercentagePercentage Control at Control at S No. Treatment 214 DAA Treatment 63DAA 1 Untreated 0.00 2 D-Napropamide 94.72 Napropamide 36.96 450 g/L @1.6 L/Ha 450 g/L @ 1.6 L/Ha 3 D-Napropamide 82.15 Napropamide 4.65 450g/L @ 1.6 L/Ha 450 g/L @ 2.8 L/Ha LSD (P = 0.5): 24.514; SD: 16.862

Conclusion: D-Napropamide demonstrates superior efficacy in the controlof Senecio vulgaris, a dicot weed, vis-à-vis the control achieved byNapropamide at an equivalent dosage.

TABLE 15 Mean Percentage Control of Matricaria sp. Percentage PercentageControl at ground S No. Treatment 49 DAA Treatment cover % 1 Untreated0.00 Untreated 4.50 (0.0%)  2 D-Napropamide 97.00 Napropamide 0.30 450g/L @ 2.0 L/Ha 450 g/L @ 1.6 L/Ha (99.3%) 3 D-Napropamide 82.15Napropamide 2.13 450 g/L @ 1.6 L/Ha 450 g/L @ 2.8 L/Ha (52.8%) LSD (P =0.5): 24.514; LSD: 1.189; SD: 0.818 SD: 16.862

Conclusion: D-Napropamide demonstrates superior efficacy in the controlof Matricaria sp., a dicot weed, vis-à-vis the control achieved byNapropamide at an equivalent dosage.

TABLE 16 Mean Percentage Control of Fallopia convolvulus (Dicot Weed)Percentage Percentage Control at Control at S No. Treatment 63 DAATreatment 63 DAA 1 Untreated 0.00 Untreated 0.00 2 D-Napropamide 100.00Napropamide 30.00 450 g/L @ 2.0 L/Ha 450 g/L @ 1.6 L/Ha 3 D-Napropamide100.00 Napropamide 0.00 450 g/L @ 1.6 L/Ha 450 g/L @ 2.8 L/Ha

Conclusion: D-Napropamide demonstrates superior efficacy in the controlof Fallopia convolvulus, a dicot weed, vis-à-vis the control achieved byNapropamide at an equivalent dosage.

Example 4 Effect of D-Isomer of Napropamide for Controlling Digitariasanguinalis (Monocot Weed)

A plot with 20% density of Digitaria sanguinalis (monocot weed) wastreated with D-Napropamide and Racemic Napropamide formulationscontaining 450 g/L active ingredient and the activity was noted after 60days of application.

TABLE 17 Mean Percentage Control of Digitaria sanguinalis S. No.Treatment % Control % Control Treatment evaluation interval 16 DAA 33DAA BBCH Weed 12 21 Groundcover (%) weed 4.75 7.0 1 D-Napropamide 3 L/Ha7.50 8.75 2 D-Napropamide 4.5 L/Ha 10.00 10.00 3 D-Napropamide 6 L/Ha10.00 12.50 4 D-Napropamide 7.5 L/Ha 10.00 11.25 5 D-Napropamide 9 L/Ha10.00 18.75 6 Napropamide 9 L/Ha 12.50 15.00 LSD (P = 0.05) 4.675 4.682Std. Dev. 3.162 3.107 CV 31.62 24.45

Conclusion: D-Napropamide is only as efficacious or less in comparisonto Napropamide in the control of monocotyledonous weeds.

Example 5 Broad Spectrum Effect of D-Napropramid and Clomazone on Dicotand Monocot Weeds

The effect of combination of D-napropramide and Clomazone was tested inthe field, post sowing of the seeds. The combination of D-napropramideand Clomazone was tested at different amounts on monocot and dicotweeds. The field was observed after 50 days, results of which arereproduced herein below:

TABLE 18 Percentage Control D-Napropamide D-Napropamide (450 g/L SC @(91 g/L MEC @ 1.7 l) + Clomazone 8.41 l) + Clomazone (360 g/L CS @ (360g/L CS @ 0.25 l) 0.25 l) (% control) (% control) ALOMY Alopecurus 100100 (19/m²) myosuroides Huds (monocot) LOLMU Lolium multiflorum 100 100(192/m²) Lam (monocot) PAPRH Papaver rhoeas L. 100 100 (15/m²) CENCYCentaurea cyanus 100 100 (104/m²) L. (dicot) GERPU Geranium pusillum 100100 (156/m²) L. (dicot) GERDI Geranium dissectum 100 98.3 (148/m²) L(dicot) TRZAW Wheat (monocot) 100 98.3 (88/m²) HORVW Hordeum irregulare100 100 (89/m²) Aberg & Wiebe (monocot) BARVU Barbarea vulgaris 100 100(78/m²) Ait. f. (dicot)

It was concluded that the combination of D-Napropamide and Clomazone wasvery effective in controlling both the dicot weeds and monocot weeds.

Example 6 Broad Spectrum Effect of D-Napropramid and Combination ofDimetachlor+Clomazone

The field infected with TRZAW (wheat-monocot) 20/m² was treated withD-napropramid (1.2 L/ha) and in combination with dimethachlor+Clomazone(1.5 L/ha). The result is tabulated herein below:

TABLE 19 Column 1 D-Napropramide (450 g/L SC @ 1.2 l) + dimethachlor +93 Clomazone (500 g/L dimethachlor + 360 g/L clomazone @ 1.5 l)D-Napropamide (450 g/L SC @ 1.2 l) + dimethachlor + 90 Clomazone (500g/L dimethachlor + 360 g/L clomazone @ 1.5 l)

From the above table it is evident that 90% to 93% of monocot weedcontrol was observed after the application of D-napropamide andcombination of dimethachlor+Clomazone (1.5 L/ha).

We claim:
 1. A method of controlling a weed infestation at a locus,comprising the step of treating said locus with an herbicidallyeffective amount an herbicide formulation consisting essentially of: atleast one agronomically acceptable excipient; and an herbicidecomposition consisting of D-Napropamide and an additional herbicide,wherein said additional herbicide is selected from the group consistingof Benzamide, Benzothiazolone, Carbamate, Carboxamide, Chloracetamide,Clomazone, Cyclodiene, Dinitroaniline, Organophosphate, Oxadiazolone,Oxyacetimide, Phenylpyridazine, Phenylurea, Pyridine, Quinoline,Triazine, Triazinone, and a combination thereof; wherein said herbicideformulation exhibits superior herbicidal efficacy compared with anequivalent formulation that uses Napropamide instead of D-Napropamide,wherein said herbicide formulation exhibits superior herbicidal efficacycompared with an equivalent formulation that uses L-Napropamide insteadof D-Napropamide, and wherein said herbicide formulation demonstratesenhanced control in the growth of dicotyledonous weeds compared tomonocotyledonous weeds.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the Benzamideis propyzamide.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the Benzothiazolone isbenazolin.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the Carbamate iscarbetamide.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the Carboxamide isdiflufenican.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the Chloracetamide,optionally in combination with Clomazone, is dimethachlor, metazachlor,metolachlor, S-metolachlor, or pethoxmide.
 7. The method of claim 6,wherein the Chloracetamide is dimethachlor in combination withClomazone.
 8. The method of claim 6, wherein the Chloracetamide ismetazachlor in combination with Clomazone.
 9. The method of claim 6,wherein the Chloracetamide is S-metazachlor in combination withClomazone.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the Cyclodiene isflumetsulam.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the Dinitroaniline isbenfluraline, pendimethalin, or trifluralin.
 12. The method of claim 1,wherein the Organophosphate is glufosinate.
 13. The method of claim 1,wherein the Oxadiazolone is dimefuron.
 14. The method of claim 1,wherein the Oxyacetimide is flufenacet.
 15. The method of claim 1,wherein the additional herbicide is a combination of Oxyacetimide andCarbaxamide, and wherein said combination is flufenacet anddiflufenican.
 16. The method of claim 1, wherein the Phenylpyridazine ispyridate.
 17. The method of claim 1, therein the Pyridine is clopyralid.18. The method of claim 1, wherein the Quinoline is quinmerac.
 19. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the Triazine is cyanazine or simazine. 20.The method of claim 1, wherein the Triazinone is metribuzin.